Sewer

Public works is responsible to inspect and maintain the collection system infrastructure and the sanitary lift stations and ensure uninterrupted collection of wastewater. Sanitary sewer disposal needs are served by the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The City of Elk River has 77 miles of sanitary sewer pipeline, with most lines being in the street. Some lines run through utility easements in grassy areas. Each year, the Wastewater Treatment Plant cleans approximately one-third of the city’s sanitary sewer lines. Lines requiring a higher level of maintenance are cleaned annually or semi-annually. This routine maintenance helps to prevent blockages and backups.

The sanitary sewer lines are cleaned using high performance sewer cleaning equipment. A cleaning nozzle is propelled from one manhole to the next using water under high pressure The nozzle is then pulled back to the starting manhole. As the nozzle is pulled back, water scours the inside of the sanitary sewer pipe. Any debris in the pipe is pulled back with the water. The debris is removed from the manhole with a vacuum unit. If roots are found, they are cut with a root cutter. This process is repeated on every sewer line cleaned.

Sanitary Sewer Freeze Up Considerations

Make sure the roof vent is not covered with snow or is otherwise blocked. Snow build up over the vent will cause the sewer to drain to slow down, which prevents the warmer air in the sewer system from venting up the hose line and keeping the line above freezing.